Wanted Fugitive Captured With 15 Pounds Of Marijuana

Evanston – Two men remain in custody after a traffic stop this weekend led to the discovery of just over 15 pounds of packaged marijuana. One of the individuals arrested was also wanted on an outstanding felony warrant from the State of Florida. 

The traffic stop for an alleged speeding violation of 85 mph in a 75 mph zone was made Sunday afternoon approximately 31 miles east of Evanston on eastbound Interstate 80.  Upon contacting the driver of the speeding vehicle the Trooper could smell the strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicles interior. 

The driver, 33 year-old Dennis Rodriguez, did not have a valid driver’s license.  A nationwide check showed that Rodriquez was wanted by law enforcement authorities from the State of Florida on an outstanding felony warrant for trafficking in cocaine. 

The passenger in the vehicle, 42 year-old Joseph Spivey, also could not produce a valid driver’s license.  When Troopers searched the car they found two suitcases.  Both men denied any knowledge or ownership of either suitcase.  Inside the suitcases they discovered the packages of marijuana.

Rodriguez has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, felony possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, felony possession of a class IV drug, speeding and driving without a valid driver’s license.  In addition to the Wyoming charges Rodriquez will be held pending extradition back to the State of Florida on the outstanding warrant. 

Spivey was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance and felony possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. 

Troopers continue to investigate this case with the assistance of Special Agents with the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.  It is believed at this point that the two men were transporting their load from California to an unknown destination in the State of Florida.

The marijuana seized has an approximate street value of $94,200.00.